BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe | Easy, Flavorful, and Customizable
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful twist on classic pizza, then look no further than BBQ Chicken Pizza! This dish is everything you love about pizza—crispy crust, melty cheese, and a variety of toppings—plus the added deliciousness of smoky, tangy BBQ chicken. The balance of flavors, from the savory chicken to the sweet BBQ sauce and fresh cilantro, makes every bite irresistible.
What makes BBQ Chicken Pizza so amazing is how easy it is to prepare. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or to make something extra special for dinner. Plus, it’s fully customizable. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your taste buds crave—whether you prefer more cheese, extra veggies, or a spicy kick.
In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to create your own BBQ Chicken Pizza, with tips for perfecting the crust, balancing flavors, and making this pizza your own. Let’s dive in and make this mouthwatering pizza together!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
- Pizza Dough: The base of any great pizza is the dough. You can make your own dough from scratch, or use store-bought dough for a quicker option. If you want a gluten-free pizza, there are also gluten-free pizza dough options available at most grocery stores.
- Cooked Chicken: BBQ chicken is the star of the show, and it’s what gives this pizza its signature flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover cooked chicken. Shredding the chicken helps distribute it evenly across the pizza.
- BBQ Sauce: A tangy and slightly sweet BBQ sauce ties everything together. Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—whether it’s a classic tomato-based sauce or a smoky, spicy version. You can even make your own homemade BBQ sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is the go-to cheese for pizza. It’s melty, gooey, and perfectly complements the tangy BBQ sauce. You can use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option, or go for full-fat mozzarella for extra richness.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions add a mild sweetness and a slight crunch to the pizza. They also balance the richness of the cheese and chicken. If you’re not a fan of raw onions, you can caramelize them beforehand to make them softer and sweeter.
- Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro is a classic garnish for BBQ chicken pizza. Its fresh, herby flavor brightens up the dish and contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and sauce. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can swap it out with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Olive Oil: Brushing the pizza crust with olive oil before baking ensures a crispy, golden edge. It also adds a subtle richness to the pizza.
- Optional Toppings: You can get creative with your BBQ chicken pizza by adding extra toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. Pineapple also pairs well with BBQ chicken if you like a sweet contrast.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). A high temperature helps the pizza crust become nice and crispy.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough: If you’re using store-bought dough, follow the instructions on the package for prep. If you’re making your own dough, roll it out into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Brush the Crust with Olive Oil: Use a pastry brush or your fingers to lightly coat the edges of the pizza dough with olive oil. This will help the crust crisp up and give it a golden-brown color.
- Add the BBQ Sauce: Spread 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the surface of the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. You can use more or less depending on your preference for sauce.
- Top with Chicken and Onions: Evenly distribute the shredded BBQ chicken (about 1 1/2 cups) over the pizza. Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onions (about 1/4 cup) over the chicken, and add any other toppings you’re using, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pizza, making sure it covers the chicken and vegetables. You can also add a little extra cheese if you like your pizza extra cheesy!
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden and crispy. If you’re using a pizza stone, it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with a squeeze of lime if desired. Slice and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Pizza!
4. Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the pizza before or after baking. You can also add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add Extra Veggies: While this recipe is all about the BBQ chicken, you can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
- Meat Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of chicken or prefer a different protein, you can substitute the chicken with pulled pork, ground beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Crust Options: You can use a cauliflower crust for a gluten-free or low-carb option. Pre-baked pizza crusts or even pita bread can also be used for a quicker, simpler option.
- Sweet and Savory Twist: Try adding pineapple to the pizza for a sweet and savory contrast. Pineapple pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors and adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs wonderfully with a light salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a Mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad will balance the richness of the pizza. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.
- Garnishing Ideas: In addition to fresh cilantro, you can top the pizza with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. For an added kick, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors.
- Drinks: For a refreshing beverage, serve your BBQ chicken pizza with an ice-cold beer, such as a pale ale or lager. If you prefer wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs well with the smoky BBQ flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or lemonade is a great pairing.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers: Leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pizza is cool before placing it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and texture.
Reheating: To reheat the pizza, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but the crust may lose its crispiness. For a quicker option, use a toaster oven for the best results.
Freezing: If you want to freeze leftover pizza, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw the pizza in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the chicken, slice the vegetables, and even pre-assemble the pizza with the sauce and toppings. Store everything in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake, just assemble the pizza and pop it in the oven.
- Use Fresh Chicken: For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but you can also grill or sauté your chicken for a homemade touch.
- Best with Fresh Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded mozzarella will melt better and provide a creamier, smoother texture on the pizza.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value per Serving |
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Calcium | 250mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and brush with olive oil.
- Spread BBQ sauce over the dough.
- Add the chicken, red onion, and cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve.
Notes: Best enjoyed fresh with your favorite drink.
Nutrition Information: See above.
10. Final Thoughts or Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect combination of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or serving it at a party, this pizza will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any fun twists you add to the recipe. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Pizza and happy cooking!